Michael Martin

Michael Donald Martin, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away on January 11th, 2026, at the age of 82.

Michael was born on January 8th, 1944, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and was raised in St. Maries, Idaho, and Mammoth, Arizona. He developed a deep respect for hard work, the outdoors, and a life shaped by perseverance.

Mining was Michael’s lifelong and primary career. In addition to his work as a miner, he was a veteran of the United States Navy. While stationed in Hawaii he rode bulls in rodeos, including the Brahman bull Iodine. He also worked as a logger, participated in mine rescue, fought forest fires and later in life drove semi-trucks.

A true cowboy at heart, Michael lived with grit, humility, and quiet strength. He was a strong and proud man whose character left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

On August 7th, 1964, Michael married the love of his life, Frieda May Manues, whom he often referred to as “his beautiful wife.” Together they built a strong family rooted in love.

Michael was a devoted father to his children: Hardy, Robert and his wife Mandie, Idari, Nina and her husband Joe, and Daniel. He embraced his son and daughter-in-law as his own, valuing the love they brought into his family.

He was a proud grandfather to 15 grandchildren: Michael, Jade, Jordon and his wife Bri, Jasmine, Donen, Isabella, Caydence, Jessica, Ashlyn, Elianna, Walela, Finnegan, Tallulah, Lavanya, and Everleigh. His legacy continues through his three great grandchildren Aubriella, Haven, and River.

Michael enjoyed riding horses, going out in the hills, and spending time outdoors. He loved gathering with family and friends to play guitar and sing, often alongside his wife. A devoted Jehovah’s Witness, his faith guided his life.

Michael is preceded in death by his parents, Nedra Hendrickson and Donald Martin, his sister Gail Ann Martin, and his brothers Rick Martin and Gary Martin. He is survived by his sisters Karen Hendrickson and Sherry Nelson, and his brother Cub Martin.

Michael Donald Martin will be remembered for his unwavering faith, deep love of family, and the strong cowboy spirit that defined the man he was.